It comes to no surprise that there are many different types of welding practices, for many different types of projects. Each specific welding job requires a unique set of skills, tools, attention to detail and equipment in order to get the job successfully completed. While each type of welding holds a certain level of value over another, there are some that can be considered stronger than the others. Specifically, arc welding and MIG welding. Both of these welding practices are commonly used within the industry and have key features that can be pointed out. At nexAir, we use our applied industry KnowHow to educate our customers and employees on welding tools, techniques and basic knowledge. Keep reading as we break down the differences and features of arc and MIG welding in order to discover which one is stronger. 

What is arc welding? 

Arc welding can be defined as a technique in which metals are joined together using the heat generated by an electric arc. The electricity creates just enough heat to melt the metal and when the melted metals are cooled, they are joined together. While this is a favored practice amongst welders in the industry, it can be a bit more difficult to learn, as well as leave a bigger mess to clean up. However, the pros outweigh the cons with this one. 

Benefits of arc welding

Arc welding has many notable benefits such as: 

• It creates lots of heat and works well with metals that have a higher melting point
• Can be used with heavy materials 
• Less smoke and sparks during the process
• Arc welders are inexpensive to purchase and use
• Does not need a separate gas supply to create a shield
• Easy to transport

What is MIG welding? 

MIG welding, also known as Metal Inert Gas welding is the process by which two metals are joined together using wire electrodes. This type of welding is an arc welding process and is also favored amongst welders in the industry. While there is a bit more cleaning ahead of time to do with this one and it is not as portable as other options, there are still various benefits that make it a great choice. 

Benefits of MIG welding

Some benefits of MIG welding include but are not limited to: 

• The process and tools are easy to learn and use
• Requires minimal setting up and is easy for beginners
• Controlling the weld is easy
• Automatic wire feed
• Can create horizontal, flat and vertical welds
• Can weld a variety of metals

Which one is stronger? 

So, to answer the big question – both can produce strong, solid welds if done correctly. While one could be favored over the other for certain projects, MIG and arc welding are both great options for a strong weld. It is important to know what your project entails and the outcome that needs to be produced ahead of time, in order to pick the right welding practice. That way, you can avoid any unnecessary hurdles and be comfortable from start to finish. At nexAir, we want our customers to Forge Forward in all the projects that they take on. Please reach out to one of our team members with any questions you may have.